Jack Colback on why Rafa Benitez staying will give Newcastle great chance of promotion

Benitez is set to be announced as staying on as Magpies’ manager for the next three years after agreeing to extend his stay at the club despite their relegation.

And former Sunderland midfielder Colback believes it will be a big boost to the club’s hopes of bouncing back to the Premier League at the first attempt.

“The first thing would be to get Rafa (Benitez) on board for next season,” Colback said.

“That will be a big step because he’s a huge name in the game and it would be a real positive to keep hold of him.

“He’s been good since he’s came in and he’s improved the team and got everyone playing for each other.

“It wasn’t enough to keep us up but keeping him would restore the positivity ahead of the new season.

“I know the players want him to stay and fingers crossed he does because that will give us a great chance of getting promoted.”